Rah de Rah de Rah

14 March 2016

When an artist has a name like Dali Susanto, you are going to expect great things - and he doesn't disappoint.

Susanto's new exhibition at Taupo Museum, Ra de Rah de Rah, features paintings on canvas, many of which use his favourite colours: black and white.

Originally hailing from Java, Indonesia, Susanto grew up in the Art Capital of Indonesia', Jogjakarta. He was surrounded by art and spent many years doing graffiti art and batik work, before settling on painting. He began painting on canvas after moving to New Zealand in 2007 with his now-wife Melinda.

I have always loved art, especially painting, he said. My mum teaches batik courses to national and international tourists and has a batik gallery, so I have been inspired by many batik patterns and prints.

His father chose the name Dali for his son thinking he would become a famous artist some day.

My mum recently shared with me the story of my dad and his intentions when naming me, and I am so happy to do this in my dad's honour, Susanto said.

Susanto's exhibition Ra de Rah de Rah will be on display at Taupo Museum from March 19 to May 2, with the official opening on March 18 at 5.30pm. The museum is open seven days from 10am to 4.30pm. Entry is free to children and Taupo District residents with proof of address.

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For further information contact:

Kerence Stephen

Exhibitions Officer Taupo Museum

Ph 376 1583

kstephen@taupo.govt.nz

www.taupo.govt.nz